Manipur Ethnic Clashes: One year on; people hopeful of a future defined by  peace; security forces remain on high alert

Imphal: May 3, marks the one-year completion of of the ethnic violence in Manipur. Security forces remain on high alert to prevent any sort of clash on this day. The clashes, which began on May 3, 2023, have left a grim trail of destruction, claiming the lives of at least 220 individuals and injuring over 1500 people. The ongoing ethnic tensions have also internally displaced more than 60,000 individuals, casting a shadow over the North Eastern state.

The violence erupted in the wake of a court order directing the state government to consider extending ST status to the Meiteis, the majority community in the state, similar to that enjoyed by the Kukis. This directive sparked tensions between the two communities, exacerbating existing ethnic fault lines in Manipur, a state bordered by Myanmar.

Despite efforts to quell the unrest swiftly, sporadic clashes, armed confrontations, and explosive strikes have persisted in Manipur, which is home to 33 lakh inhabitants. The region remains divided between the Meitei-dominated valley and the Kuki-controlled hills, with a stretch of uninhabited territory overseen by national paramilitary troops. Approximately 60,000 displaced individuals are currently residing in temporary shelters, grappling with the aftermath of the violence.

The history of Manipur is marred by recurrent instances of ethnic tensions and displacement. Hill communities like the Nagas have previously fled the Imphal Valley in significant numbers to escape violence between tribal and non-tribal groups.

The recent unrest has been fuelled by the Meitei community’s long-standing demand for scheduled tribe (ST) status, which has gained renewed momentum. However, Kuki Zo communities view this demand as a threat to their rights, territories, and lands, leading to prolonged contention.

While Meitei organisations attribute the unrest to narco-terrorist groups and illegal intruders from Myanmar, the state government echoes similar sentiments. Chief Minister N. Biren Singh has repeatedly pointed to external forces behind the ethnic clashes. The government has taken steps to identify and deport illegal intruders, deporting a batch of 77 individuals on May 1st. Thousands more are believed to be residing in the state illegally, prompting ongoing efforts for their identification and deportation.

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Moreover, the government is cracking down on drug networks, seizing drugs worth Rs 60,000 crore in the last five years and arresting over 3500 drug smugglers. Despite efforts to restore peace and normalcy, isolated violent incidents continue to occur in different parts of the state.

Both the central and state governments are working tirelessly to bring back normalcy to Manipur. However, life in Manipur remains altered for its people, with the journey towards peace expected to be a gradual one. As the state commemorates the first anniversary of the ethnic clashes, the resolve to rebuild and reconcile remains steadfast, underscoring the collective effort required to heal the wounds of the past and pave the way for a harmonious future.

The situation in Manipur serves as a stark reminder of the complex interplay of historical grievances, socioeconomic disparities, and external influences that continue to shape the landscape of ethnic relations in the region. As stakeholders navigate the path forward, the need for inclusive dialogue, equitable policies, and sustainable solutions becomes increasingly apparent. Only through concerted efforts at both the grassroots and governmental levels can Manipur hope to transcend its turbulent past and embrace a future defined by peace, prosperity, and unity.